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The BA International Relations and History at the University of Leicester offers an exciting blend of global politics and historical insight, helping you understand how past events shape the world we live in today. It’s perfect for curious students who want to explore international affairs and historical developments while gaining real-world experience through an optional Year Abroad or Year in Industry, giving you the chance to travel, work, or study overseas and broaden your horizons.
Throughout the degree, you’ll develop critical thinking, research skills, and a global perspective, preparing you for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, policy, or beyond. The program combines classroom learning with practical experience, making your education both challenging and highly rewarding.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of History and International Relations
In your first year, you’ll get to grips with the essentials of both history and international relations. Modules like Introduction to International Relations and Understanding History will introduce you to key concepts, research methods, and ways to think critically about the past and present. You’ll also build strong academic and analytical skills to prepare for more advanced study.
Year 2: Deepening Knowledge and Analytical Skills
Year two is all about diving deeper. Modules such as Theories of International Relations and Modern European History will challenge you to connect historical events with contemporary political issues. You’ll sharpen your research and analytical abilities through seminars, discussions, and independent projects, learning how to approach complex questions with confidence.
Optional Year Abroad or Year in Industry
This is your chance to make your degree truly memorable. Spend a year at a partner university abroad, immersing yourself in a different culture and academic environment, or take a professional placement in a relevant organization to gain hands-on experience. Either option allows you to apply what you’ve learned, build your CV, and make global connections that can open doors to exciting future opportunities.
Year 3: Specialization and Independent Research
In your final year, you can focus on what really fascinates you. Modules like Global Security and The History of the Cold War let you explore topics in depth, while your independent dissertation gives you the chance to conduct original research and showcase your expertise. By the end of the year, you’ll have a well-rounded understanding of both history and international relations, with practical experience to complement your academic knowledge.
Focus Areas
Global Security, Cold War History, Political Theory, International Diplomacy, Human Rights, Conflict Resolution
Learning Outcomes
Critical Analysis, Research Methodology, Historical Interpretation, International Political Understanding, Independent Thinking, Effective Communication
Professional Alignment
This program prepares you for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, government, policy analysis, research, and other global professions. The Year Abroad or Year in Industry adds practical experience that makes you stand out to employers and gives you an edge in a competitive job market.
Reputation
The University of Leicester is recognized for its research-led teaching and strong academic support. Combining historical insight with international political understanding gives graduates a unique edge, enhancing employability and international recognition.
At the University of Leicester, students on the BA International Relations and History program don’t just learn about the world—they actively engage with it. From group discussions to independent research, you’ll gain hands-on experience that builds skills in analysis, communication, and problem-solving. The program also offers access to specialist facilities and support that make learning both interactive and practical. For students seeking real-world exposure, the optional Year Abroad or Year in Industry allows you to study in a different country or gain professional experience, giving your degree an exciting edge.
You’ll benefit from opportunities such as:
Year Abroad or Year in Industry: Immerse yourself in another culture or workplace to apply your studies in practical settings.
Research and Dissertation Projects: Conduct independent research in your final year with guidance from expert faculty, using Leicester’s dedicated research facilities.
Interactive Group Work: Participate in debates, simulations, and collaborative projects that develop teamwork and critical thinking.
Libraries and Digital Resources: Access the David Wilson Library’s extensive collections, online databases, and archival materials for history and political studies.
Study Abroad Unit: Receive tailored support for placements at partner universities worldwide, helping you maximize your international experience.
Specialist Faculty Support: Engage with staff from the School of History, Politics and International Relations, who bring their research expertise into the classroom and projects.
These experiences ensure you graduate not only with strong academic knowledge but also with the practical skills and confidence valued by employers and graduate schools alike.
Graduates of the BA International Relations and History at Leicester leave with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in a wide range of careers. You could find yourself working as a policy analyst, diplomatic service officer, international development consultant, or public affairs specialist. The optional Year Abroad or Year in Industry further enhances your employability, giving you practical experience and international exposure that makes your CV stand out.
Here’s how the University supports your journey from study to career:
Careers and Employability Service: Receive one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, and access to internships and volunteering opportunities tailored to your ambitions.
Graduate Employment Stats: 76% of Leicester graduates secured positive outcomes within 15 months of finishing, with more than 77% in highly skilled roles.
Competitive Salaries: Leicester graduates earn, on average, £3,600 more than the sector average five years after graduation.
Global Opportunities: Study at over 150 partner universities worldwide through the Year Abroad, gaining international perspective and skills valued by employers.
Industry Connections: Benefit from links with organizations such as the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Ministry of Defence, and International Organization for Migration for networking and career development.
Accreditation and Skills Value: The program ensures you graduate with the knowledge, analytical skills, and professional readiness that employers are actively looking for.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you have a variety of routes to continue your studies and specialize further:
Master’s Degrees: Dive deeper into International Relations, History, or related disciplines to develop expertise in your chosen area.
PhD Programs: Conduct advanced research and contribute original insights to your field.
Professional Qualifications: Gain certifications in diplomacy, international law, or public policy to boost your career prospects.
With the combination of hands-on experience, expert teaching, and the optional Year Abroad or Year in Industry, you’ll graduate well-prepared for both professional and academic success.
A/AS Levels - BBB. All subjects accepted. Two AS-levels considered in place of one A-level.EPQ with A-levels - BBC + EPQ at grade B.TOEFL iBT / TOEFL iBT Home Edition: Minimum score 90.GCSE English Language Grade CIndia - Standard XII (CISCE/CBSE or recognised state board) with 75–80% overall allows first-year entry; A-levels, IB, or first-year university study may allow first- or second-year entry, with some partner institutions offering advanced progression.India – English Language Requirement: Completion of National Board Standard XII with 70% or State Board Standard XII with 80%.USA - High School Diploma with at least a C average, SAT (Math, Critical Reading, Writing) minimum 550 each, and 3 AP exams (typically grades 4–5); A-levels or IB also allow first-year entry, with some courses requiring specific subjects.Year Abroad Fees: UK students pay £1,430 for the year, while international students pay £5,050 (25% of the full-time tuition fee).International students (outside the UK and Republic of Ireland) are required to pay a £3,000 deposit to secure their place, which will be deducted from the total tuition fee.A foundation year is also available for this program if you do not meet the entry requirements.Policy AnalystDiplomatic Service OfficerInternational Development ConsultantPublic Affairs SpecialistIntelligence AnalystResearcherPolitical AdvisorHuman Rights OfficerGlobal Communications SpecialistForeign Affairs CorrespondentInternational NGO ManagerCivil Service OfficerThink Tank AnalystConflict Resolution SpecialistInternational Trade Consultant
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University of Leicester
